Nick Norwood

Nick Norwood is a Professor of Creative Writing at Columbus State University and serves as the Director of the Carson McCullers Center for Writers and Musicians. He also holds the interim role of Chair in the Department of Art. His academic affiliations center around literature, creative writing, and interdisciplinary arts at Columbus State University.

• Ph.D. in English, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ (1998)
• M.A. in English, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (1992)
• B.A. in Communication, University of Texas-Arlington, Arlington, TX (1986)

Nick Norwood’s research and creative interests lie predominantly in poetry and creative writing, with strong emphases on 20th-century American literature, Southern, Western, and Southwestern literary traditions, and Latino/Latina and Native American writings. His poetic work explores memory, place, identity, and the emotional textures of rural and industrial life. He is deeply engaged in interdisciplinary collaborations, merging poetry with visual art, music, and public installations.

The trends in his publications reveal a consistent focus on lyrical craftsmanship, regional identity, and emotional authenticity. His poetry collections and essays reflect a deep engagement with literary tradition, personal history, and the cultural landscapes of the American South. His collaborations with artists and musicians demonstrate a commitment to expanding poetry’s reach beyond the page.

• Pushcart Prize
• International Merit Award in Poetry, Atlanta Review
• Jentel Foundation Residency
• Sewanee Writers’ Conference Fellowships
• Hollis Summers Prize for Poetry (Gravel and Hawk)
• Multiple prize finalist recognitions

Norwood has mentored numerous emerging writers through his teaching and leadership at the Carson McCullers Center. He has directed and participated in study abroad programs in Oxford, Germany, and New York, and has secured residencies and fellowships that support his creative and scholarly work. His interdisciplinary projects, including film and opera collaborations, reflect sustained grant-like support through institutional and artistic partnerships.

He leads the Carson McCullers Center for Writers and Musicians, which hosts literary events, produces the podcast The Weekly We of Me, and is developing a documentary on Carson McCullers. The Center fosters a vibrant community for writers and artists, emphasizing legacy, creativity, and public engagement.